22010 incision and drainage p-spine c/t/cerv-thor
Also known as: posterior spine abscess drainage, spinal abscess I and D
Incision and drainage of abscess of posterior spine, cervical and/or thoracic. Surgical opening and drainage of deep spinal infections involving posterior cervical and/or thoracic vertebral elements.
In Plain Language
drainage of spinal infection; spine abscess surgery
Clinical Context
Used for posterior spinal infections including vertebral osteomyelitis, discitis, or epidural abscess. Posterior approach provides access to posterior elements and epidural space. Often combined with imaging-guided localization.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.43 |
| Total RVU | 12.43 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 12.43, this code ranks in the 66th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 22010?
CPT 22010 (incision and drainage p-spine c/t/cerv-thor) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of abscess of posterior spine, cervical and/or thoracic. Surgical opening and drainage of deep spinal infections involving posterior cervical and/or thoracic vertebral elements.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 22010?
The work RVU for CPT 22010 is 12.43. This code is primarily used by Spine Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 22010 used?
Used for posterior spinal infections including vertebral osteomyelitis, discitis, or epidural abscess. Posterior approach provides access to posterior elements and epidural space. Often combined with imaging-guided localization.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.